Robert Elmer Balaban, born August 16, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois, USA (height: 5' 5" [1.65 m]). American actor, author, comedian, director, and producer. He is best known for his appearances in Christopher Guest's mockumentary comedies "Waiting for Guffman" (1996), "Best in Show" (2000), "A Mighty Wind" (2003), and "For Your Consideration" (2006), as well as for roles in the films "Midnight Cowboy" (1969), "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" (1977), "Altered States" (1980), "2010" (1984), "Deconstructing Harry" (1997), and "Capote" (2005). Balaban has also directed three feature films, as well as numerous television episodes and films. He is also the author of children's novels.

Balaban began his career in the 1960s, appearing in small roles in films and TV shows. He had his breakthrough in the 1969 film "Midnight Cowboy," playing a young hustler who befriends an aging rodeo cowboy. In the 1970s, Balaban appeared in a number of popular films, including "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" (1977), "Altered States" (1980), and "2010" (1984). He also continued to work in television, appearing in recurring roles on the series "Lou Grant" and "Designing Women."

In the 1990s, Balaban began a long and fruitful collaboration with director Christopher Guest. He appeared in all of Guest's mockumentary comedies, including "Waiting for Guffman" (1996), "Best in Show" (2000), "A Mighty Wind" (2003), and "For Your Consideration" (2006). Balaban's performances in these films received widespread acclaim, and he earned a reputation as one of Hollywood's most reliable comedic actors.

In addition to his work in film and television, Balaban has also directed three feature films: "The Last Shot" (1999), "Bernie" (2011), and "A Little Help" (2010). He is also a successful author of children's novels and has received several awards for his work.